Perak: A total of 34 state tourism infrastructure development projects have been implemented as part of early preparations for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee announced these initiatives, which involve local authorities, district and land offices, and various state agencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the projects include 16 initiatives worth RM2 million aimed at developing tourism facilities in line with the Age-Friendly City concept, seven projects amounting to RM1 million focused on upgrading tourism icons at strategic locations statewide, and 11 rural infrastructure development projects valued at RM1 million in key tourist hotspots.
Loh also highlighted that the state government has approved RM2.6 million for infrastructure projects under the Perak Budget 2026, to be distributed to local authorities. This allocation includes RM1 million for rural infrastructure development in tourism areas, RM1 million for upgrading tourism icons and maintaining tourist sites, RM500,000 for enhancing signage and wayfinding infrastructure, and RM100,000 for organising the 2026 Panjut Festival.
In conjunction with the announcement of VM2026, the Perak government has allocated RM18.67 million to implement tourism and cultural development programmes and projects. These allocations cover promotional activities, event organisation, the introduction of new tourism products and services, and efforts to strengthen cultural uniqueness and diversity while exploring new markets.
Loh expressed gratitude towards the federal government for approving an allocation of RM13.5 million under the First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan for 2026. This funding will support two significant projects: RM10 million for upgrading tourism facilities in Teluk Dalam, Pulau Pangkor, in the Manjung district, and RM3.5 million for the development of ecotourism facilities and infrastructure in Lata Puteh, in the Larut, Matang and Selama district.
The local service charge (CPT) has collected RM5.8 million as of October 2025, providing a new revenue stream for the state government. However, enforcement and verification efforts are ongoing to ensure all tourism accommodation providers are properly registered under the CPT.
Loh noted that the challenges for the tourism sector in 2026 are expected to surpass those faced in previous years. Nevertheless, the state has set a target of 10.5 million domestic tourists and 1.1 million international tourists for 2026, a realistic projection based on current arrival trends.